Monday, November 22, 2010

No one touched my junk at San Jose Airport and TSA tips on how to travel safely this holiday season

I don't have the power to conduct pat-downs or the authority to use high-powered, x-ray equipment, but I am intently scanning and monitoring the activity of passengers and Transportation Security Administratoin (TSA) agents as they pass through the security gate at San Jose International Airport. I am happy to report I saw no frisky guards here at SJC this morning, the launch of the busy travel season - 24 million travelers will hit the road!

I abandoned my fantasy plan to walk naked through the security area - that could lead to other problems! So instead, I just did as I was told and walked thru the controversial scanner. I was told to put my hands up in the air (as in being arrested) and plant my feet apart on painted footprints on the floor. Then, I knew someone I couldn't see was looking at my body contours to check for concealed weapons.

Before Packing
0 Quart sized zip top bag (Hint: 1 bag per passenger is permitted)
0 3 ounces or less sized containers of liquids, gels and aerosols
0 Visit TSA.gov to review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage
0 If purchasing a luggage lock, be sure to look for those that are recognized by TSA
0 It can be helpful to tape a card with your name and contact information on any large
electronics (like laptops)

When Packing
0 Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
0 Pack large electronics on top layer of carry-on for easy accessibility
0 Place your 3-1-1 bag with liquids, gels and aerosols in front pocket of your carry-on
for easy accessibility

Before Leaving for Airport
0 Give yourself enough time to arrive at the airport early
0 Wear easily removable shoes 0 Make sure to have accepted government issued identification and boarding pass (if printed at home)

Before Entering Checkpoint
0 Look for Family/Medical Liquids Lanes if special assistance is needed for families
0 Be sure to place all items from pockets and any bulky metal jewelry in carry-on bag or purse
0 Have ID and boarding pass out for inspection

After Entering Checkpoint
0 Remove 3-1-1 bag and place in bin
0 Remove shoes and place directly on belt for quick screening
0 Remove coats and jackets and place in bin 0 Remove computers and large electronics from carry on and place in bin alone (video game
consoles, remote control toys, etc.)
0 Ensure no items remain in your pockets before proceeding to the walk-thru metal detector
or imaging technology (keys, cell phones, comb, eyeglasses, etc.)
0 Remember to check bins and collect all belongings following screening.
Have a safe flight!